How to Beat the Winter Blues

How to Beat the Winter Blues

Don't let Jack Frost get you down this winter! Make the most of the season with these tips.

No matter how pretty a snow-covered landscape may look, it’s easy to come down with a case of cabin fever during the winter season. Don’t let a little chilly air get you down! Tell Jack Frost to get lost with the best ways to beat the winter blues.

Get moving

It’s easy to skip your workout when the cold weather hits. Take the time to appreciate the season with winter-exclusive activities, like ice skating, sledding, skiing and snowshoeing. Even clearing your driveway of pesky snow will help you stay active. If the great outdoors isn’t for you, try bowling, walking around your local mall or take a yoga class.

Don’t forget to don your warm layers for any outdoor activity. The American Heart Association recommends starting with a layer of high-performance sportswear to pull moisture from sweat and snow off your skin. Follow up with a fleece layer, and finish with a thin waterproof layer. And remember to stay hydrated.

Eat smart

Winter was made for food that warms you from the inside out. The NZ Nutrition Foundation recommends a hot bowl of soup or stew for a chilly day indoors. Load it up with lots of vegetables, beans and protein for a nutritional boost. Oily fish like salmon are a good source of vitamin D, which helps to boost the immune system when we can’t get our daily dose of sunlight.

Make sure you use garlic in your dishes as well. Garlic helps fend off diseases, keeping you healthy and happy during cold and flu season. For the most benefits, chop garlic and let it stand 10-15 minutes before cooking.

Start something new

A new hobby is a sure-fire way to beat the winter blues. Cuddle up by the fire with a good book and a nice mug of hot chocolate. Get crafty and teach yourself to knit or crochet a warm scarf or hat for yourself. Test out some new recipes in the kitchen. Spruce up your home with some DIY decorating projects. Get the whole family in on the action for some cold weather bonding.

Plan a getaway

The perfect cure for cabin fever is planning your next vacation. AAA travel agents are always at the ready to help you begin your next destination away from home. Choose a tropical getaway to the sunny Caribbean or plan a magical trip to Disney World. If you’re more adventurous, book a safari on the African savanna and taste Italy’s finest cuisine with Club Adventures. No matter where you choose to go, the winter will fly by while you begin to satisfy your wanderlust.

What are your tips for beating the winter blues? Share in the comments!

Leave a Reply

Sign Up for Our Free Newsletters Today!

We understand your email address is private. You will receive email and newsletters from Your AAA Network, and we will only share your email with approved sponsors. Any information we capture is subject to the AAA Privacy Policy as amended from time to time. You may view the current version of the AAA Privacy Policy at any time online at AAA.com. And remember you can unsubscribe at any time. Please note that if you are a Primary member of AAA Northeast, you will no longer receive a monthly printed copy of Your AAA.